DE60219071T2 - Terminal arrangements for transmission channel connections with grouped elements - Google Patents

Description

Background of the invention

The The present invention relates to electronic communication multi-switch systems and more particularly a suitable transmission channel structure for Use in such systems.

Various means of electronic transmission are known in the art. Most, if not all, of these transmission means suffer from inherent speed limits, such as both the upper frequency limit and the actual time a signal takes to travel from one point to another in the system, commonly referred to as propagation delay. They are limited in their electronic performance primarily by their structure and secondly by their material composition. One traditional approach uses conductive pins, such as those in an "edge card connector" as illustrated in FIG 1 , In this type of structure are a variety of conductive pins or terminals 20 in a plastic housing 21 arranged, and this arrangement provides operating speeds of about 800 to 900 MHz. An improvement over this standard structure is represented by the edge connectors known in the art as "Hi-Spec" and disclosed in US Pat 2 wherein the system has large ground contacts 25 and small signal contacts 26 , arranged in an insulating plug housing 27 , includes. The smaller signal contacts 26 connect to the larger grounding contacts 25 , The signal contacts in this structure are not differential signal contacts, but represent single-pole signals, meaning that each signal contact is flanked by a ground contact. The operating speed for this type of system is assumed to be about 2.3 GHz.

Yet another improvement in this field is referred to as a "triad" or "triple" plug, in which conductive terminals in a plastic housing 28 be arranged in a triangular pattern, and the connections have a large ground connection 29 and two smaller differential signal terminals 30 include, as in 3 and as described in more detail in U.S. Patent No. 6,280,209. This triad / triple structure has an apparent upper limit speed of about 4 GHz. All three of these proposals, in the simplest sense, use conductive pins in a plastic housing to provide a transmission line for electronic signals.

In For each of these types of designs, it is desirable to have a corresponding transmission line over the Maintain the system's overall supply path, including through the control panel (s), the connection interface and the source and load of the system. It is difficult to get the desired uniformity in the system, if the transmission system consists of individual Pins is constructed. Discrete point-to-point connections become in these plugs for Signals, grounding and current used. Each of these ladders has been designed as either a conductor or a means of providing electrical continuity and taken into account usually no transmission line effects. Most of the conductors were designed as standard connector panel, so that all the pins or connectors regardless of their particular electrical function, and the pins were still with a standard spacing, material type and length arranged. Although in performance at low operating speeds satisfactory, would this Systems at high operating speeds the conductors as discontinuities in the system which affect the operation and the speed of operation.

Lots signal connections or pins in these systems were connected to the same ground return conductor provided and thus create a high signal-to-earth ratio, which this in itself for high speed signal transmission makes it unfit because big Current loops are forced between the signals and grounding, the current loops reduce the bandwidth and the crosstalk effects of the system, thereby improving system performance possibly is worsened.

The bandwidth ("BW") is proportional to 1√ LC . where L represents the inductance of the system components, C represents the capacity of the system components, and BW is the bandwidth. The inductive and capacitive components of the signal line system work to reduce the bandwidth of the system, even in completely homogeneous systems without discontinuities. These inductive and capacitive components can be minimized by reducing the total path length across the system, primarily by limiting the area of the current path through the system and reducing the overall panel area of the system elements. However, as the transmission frequency increases, the reduction in size creates its own problems in that the effective physical length is reduced to rather small sizes. High frequencies in the 10 GHz range and above make most of the calculated system path lengths unacceptable.

In addition to the aggregation of inductance and capacitance across the system, which is power-limited As such, any non-homogeneous geometric and / or material transitions create discontinuities. Using about 3.5 GHz as a minimum cut-off frequency in a low-voltage differential signal system operating at about 12.5 gigabits per second (Gbps), the use of a dielectric having a dielectric constant of about 3.8 provides a critical path length of about 0.25 inches over which length discontinuities can be tolerated. This size makes the ability to build a system that has a source, transmission load and load within the given quarter-inch impractical. It can thus be seen that the development of electronic transfer structures has proceeded from uniformly structured pin arrangements to functionally predetermined pin arrangements to attempt uniformly structured interfaces, path length and other factors still limiting these structures. With the aforementioned prior art structures, it has not been feasible to transmit high frequency signals because of the physical limitations of these systems and the short critical path lengths necessary for such transmission.

Around To get an effective structure, one must have a constant and certain transmission line obtained on the entire pipeline route: from the source through the Interface and to the load. This would comprising the mating connections and switchboards. This is very difficult to achieve if the conduit system is made up of individual conductive Pins are constructed that are designed to work with other individual ones conductive pins due to potentially required changes in terms of size, shape and position of the pins / terminals, related to each other. For example, changes in a right-angle Plug the relationship between the rows of pins / connections, both in terms of length as well as the electrical coupling. High-speed connector design principles, the all surfaces between the source and load of the system, including Switchboards, switch connectors and cable assemblies in transmission systems used with sources up to 2.5 Gbps. One of these principles is the principle of grounding through design which additional capacity across from Standard pinfields delivers by coupling the signal and the grounding paths reinforced and single ended grounded operation is preferred. Another one Principle used in such systems includes impedance tuning, around the discontinuities to minimize. Yet another design principle is the pin removal optimization, where signal and return paths specific pins in the pin field are assigned to the performance to maximize. These types of systems are all in terms of achieving the above mentioned critical path lengths limited.

The The present invention is directed to an improved transmission or control system directed, that the aforementioned Overcomes disadvantages and at higher Speeds works.

Summary of the invention

The The present invention is therefore directed to an improved transmission structure, the ones mentioned above Overcomes disadvantages and grouped electrical conductive elements used to create a uniform mechanical structure that provides a complete electronic transmission channel, which is similar in a sense to an optical fiber system. The focus of the invention is the provision of a complete copper-based electronic transmission channel rather than using either individually conductive pins or separate interfaces with copper conductors as the transmission channels, wherein the transmission channels of the invention more predictable electrical performance and greater control of the Give operating characteristics. Such improved systems of The present invention is intended to speed operation for digital signal transmission up to at least 12.5 GHz for extended path lengths, the much bigger than 0.25 inches are deploy.

Accordingly, a general objective of the present invention to provide a shaped waveguide, which acts as a channel connection with grouped elements, wherein the compound is elongated dielectric body region and at least two conductive elements arranged along the outer surfaces thereof, includes.

One Another object of the present invention is to provide a high-speed channel connection (or transmission line). with an elongated one body area provide a predetermined cross-section, wherein the body region from a dielectric with a selected dielectric constant is formed, and the connection in its most basic structure two conductive Elements arranged on the outer surface thereof, possesses, whereby the elements of similar Size and shape and are oriented in the opposite direction to each other, around the electrical energy wave that travels through the connector, by building special electric and magnetic fields between controls the two conductive elements, and these fields over the full length of the channel connector.

Another object of the present invention is to increase the impedance of the channel connector to selectively measure the conductive elements and the gaps therebetween on the outer surface of the elongated body to maintain the balanced or unbalanced electric & magnetic fields.

Yet Another object of the present invention is to provide an improved electrical transmission channel to provide a flat substrate and a variety of Provides recesses formed in the substrate, wherein the recesses opposite side walls record and the recesses through intervening areas of the Substrate are spaced from each other, wherein the side walls of the Recesses have a deposited therein conductive material, such as by plating or knocking down to electronic transmission channels in the To form recesses.

Yet Another object of the present invention is to provide a pre-set wave guide in which at least one pair of conductive elements is used to provide differential signal transmission, i.e. Signal on ("+") and signal off ("-"), where the pair of conductive Elements on the exterior of the arranged dielectric body is to establish a capacity per unit length, one inductance per unit length, Impedance, attenuation and propagation delay per unit length allow and set these predetermined performance parameters in the channels, formed by the conductive Elements.

Yet Another object of the present invention is to provide an improved transmission line in Form of a solid compound of preferably uniform circular cross-section provide, wherein the compound at least a pair of conductive elements arranged thereon, which serves to the electric wave to perform here wherein the compound is at least one thin filament dielectric Material with two conductive surfaces, the arranged thereon, wherein the conductive surfaces are longitudinal extend the filament and by two circumferential arcuate extensions are separated, wherein the conductive surfaces are still separated from each other to form a separate two-element transmission channel which reduces the current loop and in which the signal conductors are more accurately aligned.

Yet Another object of the present invention is to provide a non-circular transmission line for high-speed applications to provide an elongated rectangular or square dielectric member having an outer surface with at least four individual sectors arranged on it, wherein the dielectric part is a pair of conductive elements which are aligned with each other and on two of the sectors be arranged while these are separated by an intermediate sector.

The The present invention achieves the above and other objects their unique structure. In a principal aspect includes the present invention a transmission line, that of a dielectric with a preselected dielectric constant and a preselected cross-sectional configuration is formed. A pair of conductive surfaces will be on the dielectric Conduit or the connector arranged, and preferably with each other aligned and separated. The conductive surfaces serve as a waveguide for guiding the electrical waves along the transmission connector.

In another principal aspect of the present invention the conductive ones Elements grouped together as a pair on a single element, and thus define a modular waveguide that intervenes and works under the successive printed circuit boards and can be connected without difficulty herewith. The conductive surfaces can by selective deposition conductive Material thereon, as by plating, on the outer surface of the dielectric body, or by molding or otherwise adhering to the actual Head on the body be formed. In this way, the dielectric with curvatures be formed, and the conductive Surfaces, the on the surface thereof retain their spaced arrangement of grouped ones Channel conductors along and through the curvatures of the dielectric Body.

In Yet another principal aspect of the invention may be the exterior of the transmission line through an outer protective jacket or a cuff covered. The conductive surfaces can open the dielectric body in a balanced arrangement with equal widths or one unbalanced arrangement with one or more pairs of conductive Elements are arranged, and the conductive elements have different widths on. Three conductive Elements can on the dielectric body be arranged to make a differential triple on the transmission line using a pair of differential signal conductors and a associated earthing conductor. The number of conductive surfaces is only by the size of the dielectric body limited and four such individual conductive elements may be used be to the two differential signal channels or a single differential Pair with double grounding to use.

In Yet another principal aspect of the present invention becomes a unified transmission line formed with a recess, or in a variety of selective formed shaped metallized recesses in a substrate. The Substrate is provided with recesses to form the recesses, and the side walls of the Recesses can with a conductive material be clad. The air gap between the side walls of the Recesses or grooves in this case serve as the dielectric the transmission channel. In this structure, the dielectric constant of air is different and smaller than the dielectric constant the dielectric body, about the electrical affinity to influence, and in particular between the conductive elements in the recesses and not between adjacent signal transmission channels of the transmission line pair while the transmission speed elevated becomes.

In Yet another principal aspect of the present invention can the previously mentioned transmission connectors used to carry electricity. Under such circumstances the underlying transmission line grooved dielectric having a continuous contact region, which is formed in the grooves, i. covering the sidewalls and the bottom of the groove. The continuous contact area on these three surfaces for the length of the Groove is present, improves the current carrying capacity of the structure. A Ground plane can be used to control the capacitive coupling between the power channels and to increase the ground plane, to reduce the source impedance of the forest. The transmission line can be formed with prominent ridges or areas that serve to define troughs in between. The conductive surfaces become in the wells by means of a continuous process, such as selective Plating, formed so that a continuously plated trough, i.e. two side walls and a connection base formed over the Length of the transmission line extend. This increases the current carrying capacity the transmission line. A high capacity can then over the dielectric between two signal conductors are created, to reduce the source impedance of the system.

Of the Current carriers aspect The invention may further be achieved by forming high density contact sets supported in the system become. In a grooved transmission line can the opposite side walls the grooves with a conductive Material to be plated to form continuous contacts, which are over the length extend the transmission line, and opposite polarity signals (i.e., "+" and "-") may be along promoted these contacts become. A pin arrangement can be formed, e.g. on the way of insert molding in the grooves, either individually or as an arrangement, two or more includes such grooves to the opposite pairs of contacts isolate and shield what results in an increased voltage gap. A conformal coating can be used to make a similar To reach the goal.

The transmission lines of the invention carry both signals and electricity and can thus easily in separate signal channels or power channels be split. The signal channels can with conductive Be designed strips or paths of a preselected width, while the Current channels, around high currents to transport, either wider strips or an enlarged continuous strip of tape include. The wider strips are enlarged plate areas compared with the signal strips, and have a higher capacity. The signal and power channels can through a wide non-conductive Area of the transmission line be separated, which serves as an isolation region. Because the isolation region while forming the underlying dielectric base can be easily defined, the isolation region, to minimize cross-contamination or electrical interference.

This and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention be considered by a consideration the following detailed description clearly understood.

Brief description of the drawings

in the The course of this detailed description is frequently made to the attached drawings Referenced, wherein:

1 a schematic plan view of the end face of a conventional connector represents;

2 Fig. 12 is a schematic plan view of an edge card used in a high-speed connector;

3 Figure 12 is a schematic elevational view of a high speed connector using a triad or a triple;

4 Figure 5 is a perspective view of a grouped element channel connector constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention;

5 a schematic end view of the grouped element channel connector of 4 which is the arcuate extensions of the conductive Illustrates elements and the spacing therebetween;

6 Figure 5 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a grouped element channel connector constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention;

7 Fig. 12 is a schematic view of a transmission connector of the present invention used to connect a source to a load with intermediate loads on the transmission connector;

8th a schematic view of a plug member using both conventional contacts "A" and the transfer connectors "B" of the invention with enlarged detailed areas at "A" and "B" illustrating the occurrence of inductance in the respective systems;

9 Figure 3 is a perspective view of an alternative construction of a connector of the invention having a right angle bend formed therein;

10 Fig. 10 is a schematic view of a transmission line using the connectors of the present invention;

11 Figure 3 is a perspective view illustrating alternative media compositions of the connectors of the invention;

12 Fig. 12 is a perspective view of an arrangement of various forms of dielectric bodies illustrating alternative conductive surface arrays;

13 a perspective view of an arrangement of dielectric bodies with non-circular cross-section, which can be used to form connector of the invention, represents;

14 Figure 4 is a perspective view of another arrangement of non-circular cross-section dielectric bodies suitable for use as a connector of the invention;

15 an exploded view of a connector assembly incorporating a multiple element connector of the invention used to provide a transmission line between two connectors;

16 a perspective view of a connector assembly with two connector housings, which through the transmission connector of 15 are connected;

17 Figure 12 is a diagrammatic view of a transmission channel of the present invention having two connection blocks formed at opposite ends of the channel and illustratively illustrating the potential flexible nature of the invention;

18 Fig. 12 is a perspective view of an array of differently configured dielectric bodies that may be used as connectors having different lens characteristics;

19 Figure 4 illustrates a perspective view of a multiple transmission connector extrusion with differential signal channels formed thereon;

20 Fig. 12 is a perspective view of a multiple transfer connector extrusion used in the invention;

21 a perspective view of a terminal interface used with a discrete transmission connector of the invention, the connection interface takes the form of a hollow end cap represents;

22 a rear perspective view of the end cap of 21 illustrating the center opening thereof receiving an end portion of the transmission connector therein;

23 a front perspective view of the end cap of 21 representing the orientation of the external contacts;

24 a top view of a multiple transmission connector of the right angle curved connector assembly;

25 a perspective view of an alternative construction of one of the terminal ends of the connector assembly represents;

26 Figure 5 is a perspective view of a connector suitable for use as a connector of the present invention of transmission channel connectors to a control panel;

27A a perspective skeleton view of the plug of 26 representing a part of the inner contacts of the plug in a dummy image;

27B a perspective view of the inner contact arrangement of the plug of 27A represents, wherein the side walls are removed, and illustrates the structure and placement of the coupling stacks thereof;

28 a cross-sectional view of the plug of 26 along line 28-28 thereof;

29A -C end views of other embodiments of the transmission channel connectors, which in 29A the dielectric body of the transmission channel for the medium, is effected by the coupling, and in the 29B until C represents the air gap between the conductive elements as the medium through which coupling is effected;

30 an end view of an arrangement of the transmission channel connector of 29C mounted on a holder and illustrating the package of transmission channels that can be obtained with the present invention;

31 a plan view showing a rectangular configuration of an air-dielectric transmission channel, similar to those of 29A to C illustrates;

32 Figure 5 is a perspective view of a waveguide assembly constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention;

33 a cross-sectional view of the waveguide assembly of 32 along lines 33-33 thereof;

34 an enlarged detail of a sectional view of the waveguide assembly of 32 along lines 34-34 thereof;

35 a perspective view of a connector assembly using a grouped channel transfer element of the invention, which extends between two switchboards and is protected from the outside by a protective jacket, represents;

36 Figure 5 is a perspective view of a variation in the use of the grouped element channel connectors of the invention illustrating a rectangular application thereof used to connect two panels together;

37 Fig. 12 is a perspective view of a high density, high voltage transmission line constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention;

38 an end view of the transmission line of 37 , represents;

39 Fig. 12 is a perspective view of a transmission line of the invention suitable for use as a low impedance power transmission line;

40 Figure 4 is a perspective view of a mixed signal and power transmission line of the invention extending between two plugs, and wherein the signal and power conductors are separated by a signal isolation region; and

41 a perspective view when another mixed signal and power transmission line extends between two plugs, and NEN with multiple Isolationsregio arranged thereon to electrically isolate the signal and current conductors of each other, represents.

Detailed description of the preferred embodiments

4 illustrates a channel connector 50 with grouped elements constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention. It can be seen that the connector 50 an elongated dielectric body 51 comprises, preferably a cylindrical filament which is similar to a length of an optical fiber material. This differs from that in that the connector 50 acts as a pre-set waveguide and dedicated transmission medium. In this regard, the body becomes 51 of a particular dielectric having a specific dielectric constant and a plurality of conductive elements 52 , which are attached to it, formed. In the 4 and 5 become the conductive elements 52 as elongated extensions, guides or strips 52 of conductive material and, as such, may traditionally be copper or noble metal extensions having a defined cross-section which conform to the dielectric body of the connector 50 shaped or otherwise attached, such as an adhesive. You can also on the outer surface 55 of the body, by suitable plating or vacuum deposition. The conductive guides 52 are disposed on the outer surface and have a width extending along the circumference of the dielectric body.

At least two such conductors are used on each connector, typically for signal transmission of differential signals, such as +0.5 volts and -0.5 volts. The use of such a differential signal arrangement makes it possible to characterize the structures of this invention as pre-set waveguides which are maintained over substantially the entire length of the signal delivery path. The use of the dielectr body 51 provides preferential coupling that occurs in the connector. In the simplest embodiment, as in 5 1, conductive elements are arranged on two opposite surfaces so that the electrical affinity of each of the conductive elements for each other passes through the dielectric body on which they are carried, or in the case of a conductive channel, as explained in more detail below and in US Pat in the 29 to 30 4, wherein the conductive elements are disposed on two or more inner surfaces of the recess / recesses to establish the primary coupling mode across the recess gap and through an air dielectric. In this manner, the connectors of the present invention may be considered as the electrical equivalent to an optical fiber channel or extension.

The The present invention is directed to electrical waveguides and neither optical nor microwave waveguides. The waveguides the present invention, electrical signals to desired Levels of electrical affinity at high frequencies from about 1.0 GHz to at least 12.5 GHz and preferably higher maintained. The optical waveguides as described in US Pat. No. 6,377,741, issued April 23, 2002, relates typically on a single outer coating or jacket with mirror-like reflexive Properties to move the light particles in a selected direction to keep. openings result in the outer coating / sheath in a dispersion of light passing through the waveguide moved, which adversely affects the light beam of the waveguide. Microwave waveguides are used at very high frequencies, to align rather than transmit the energy of the microwave beam as disclosed by U.S. Patent No. 6,114,677, issued Sept. 5 2002, wherein a microwave conductor is used is used to align the microwaves at the center portion of a furnace. Such a directed target is also known in the art used by microwave antennas. In any case, these types used by waveguides to the energy of the light of the microwave, the is moved by these, to focus and to judge, whereas in the present invention determines the entire waveguide structure is to generate an electrical signal at the desired frequency (s) and impedance, capacity and inductance to keep.

The effectiveness of the connectors of the present invention depends on the conduction and maintenance of digital signals through the channel connector by using two or more conductive surfaces of the electrical receptacle. This includes maintaining the integrity of the signal, controlling emissions and minimizing loss through the connector. The channel connectors of the present invention contain the electromagnetic fields of the signals conveyed therethrough by controlling the material near the channel connector and the geometries of the system components to provide preferred field coupling. Simply stated, the present invention creates a particular transmission line by defining a region of electrical affinity, ie, the dielectric body 51 which is bound by conductors, ie conductive surfaces 52 of opposite charge, ie negative and positive differential signals.

How better in 5 illustrates the two conductive surfaces 52 on the dielectric body 51 arranged opposite each other. The dielectric body 51 who in 4 is shown taking the shape of a cylindrical rod while the in 5 shown dielectric body has an oval-like configuration. In each case, the conductive surfaces or guides extend 52 in single arc lengths. Both the 4 as well as 5 are representative of a "balanced" connector of the invention where the circumferential extent or arc length C of the two conductive surfaces 52 is the same, and the circumferential lengths or arc lengths C1 of the non-conductive outer surfaces 55 of the dielectric body 51 are the same. This length can be considered to define a coarse separation D between the conductive surfaces. As will be explained below, the connector may be "unbalanced" with one of the conductive surfaces having an arc length greater than another, and in such a case, the transmission line is most preferably grounded or non-differential signal application. In cases where the dielectric body and connector is circular, the connector may serve as a contact pin and be used in connector applications. This circular cross-section shows the same type of construction as conventional round contact pins.

As in 6 As illustrated, the connectors of the present invention may be modified not only to provide multiple conductive elements as part of the overall system transmission medium, but may also incorporate a matching and coaxial optical fiber waveguide for transmission of light and optical signals. In this regard, the dielectric body 51 a core up to a central opening 57 to create, through which an optical fiber 58 extends. Electrical signals can pass through this connector as well as light signals 60 be transmitted.

7 schematically illustrates a transmission line 70 that a connector 50 of the present invention, which is located between a source 71 and a load 72 extends. The conductive surfaces 52 of the connector serve to interconnect the source and the load, as well as other secondary loads 73 that lie between the source and the load. Such secondary loads may be added to the system to control the impedance through the system. Line impedance is established at the source and can be modified by adding secondary loads to the transmission line.

8th schematically illustrates the difference between the connectors of the present invention and conventional connectors, both supported by a dielectric block 76 are illustrated. Two discrete conventional plugs 77 are formed of copper or other conductive material and extend through the block 76 in the way of pins. As shown in magnification "A", the two discrete conductors represent an open cell structure with a large inductance (L) due to the increased current loop. Quite differently, the connectors of the present invention have a smaller inductance (L) at a constant impedance due to the proximity of the conductive surfaces to each other as positioned on the dielectric body 51 , on. The dimensions of these connectors 50 can be controlled in the manufacturing process, and extrusion is the preferred manufacturing process with the conductive surfaces extending with the dielectric body or applied separately from the extrusion, such as by a selective plating process, so that the resulting construction represents the clad plastic construction. The volume of the dielectric body 51 and the distance between the conductive members disposed thereon can be easily controlled by an extrusion method. The conductive surfaces preferably extend the length of the dielectric body and may terminate slightly in front of the ends thereof at a location where it is desired for the transmission line to connect to a plug, panel, or similar component.

As 9 illustrates, the dielectric body may forward curvature 80 in the form of a right-angle 90 ° bend or in any other angular orientation. As shown, the conductive surfaces extend 52 through the curvature 80 with the same distance separation between them and the same width as the conductive surfaces begin and end. The dielectric body 51 and the conductive surfaces 52 are readily maintained in their distances and separated by the curvature to eliminate any potential losses.

10 illustrates a transmission line using the connectors of the invention. The connector 50 is considered a transmission cable formed of one or more individual dielectric bodies 51 , and an end 82 this is followed by a switchboard 83 at. This port can be directed to minimize any panel discontinuity. A short transmission connector 84 , which keeps any discontinuities to a minimum, is also provided. These connectors 84 maintain the grouped aspect of the transmission line. Connection interfaces 85 can be provided where the connector connects to the connector with minimal geometry discontinuity or impedance discontinuity. In this manner, the grouping of conductive surfaces is maintained along the length of the transmission line, resulting in both geometric and electrical uniformity.

11 illustrates a variety of different cross sections of the transmission connectors 50 the invention. In the far right connector 90 is a central leader 93 from a hollow dielectric body 94 which in turn contains the multiple conductive surfaces 95 which are separated by an intervening space, preferably with portions of the dielectric body 94 is filled up. This design is suitable for use in power applications where power passes through the central conductor 93 is transported. In the middle connector 91 from 11 is the central cover 96 preferably made of a selected dielectric and has conductive surfaces 97 that are carried by this one. An outer insulating protective jacket 98 is preferably provided to protect and insulate the inner connector. The leftmost connector 92 of the 11 has an outer protective jacket 99 on, which is a placeable polymeric ring 100 which includes either a conductive or insulating core 101 surrounds. sections 101 of the ring 100 are plated with a conductive material and separated by non-plated areas to define the two or more conductive surfaces desired on the body of the ring. Alternatively, one or all of the elements may be the core or the connector 92 surrounded, filled with air and may be spaced from an inner part by suitable spacers or the like.

12 illustrates an arrangement of connectors 110 to 113 whose outer regions are connected to the dielectric body 51 combined to form various types of junction connectors. Interconnects 110 has two conductive surfaces 52a . 52b different arc lengths (ie imbalanced), arranged on the outer surface of the dielectric body 51 so that the connector 110 can provide a single grounded signal operation. Interconnects 111 has two equally spaced and large (or "balanced") conductive elements 52 to provide effective differential signal operation.

Interconnects 112 has three conductive surfaces 115 to two differential signal conductors 115a and a matching grounding conductor 115b , to wear. Interconnects 113 has four conductive surfaces 116 arranged on its dielectric body 51 in which the conductive surfaces 116 comprise either two differential signal channels (or pairs) or a single signal differential pair with a pair of associated groundings.

13 illustrates an arrangement of one type of non-circular connector 120 to 122 having polygonal configurations, such as square configurations, such as connectors 120 , or right-angled configurations, such as the connectors 121 to 122 , The dielectric body 51 can with protruding area sections 125 extruded, which are plated or otherwise covered with conductive material. Individual conductive surfaces are disposed on individual sides of the dielectric body and, more preferably, differential signal pairs of the conductive surfaces are disposed on opposite sides of the body. These area sections 125 can be used as "keys" in the connector slots of the connector in a manner such that contact between the connector terminals (not shown) and the conductive surfaces 125 is easily effected.

14 illustrates some additional dielectric bodies that may be used with the present invention. A body 130 is shown as convex, while the other two bodies 131 . 132 are shown as having a generally concave configuration. A circular cross section of the dielectric body has a tendency to concentrate the electric field strength at the corners of the conductive surfaces, while a slight convex shape, as in body 130 has the tendency to concentrate the field strength evenly, resulting in less attenuation. The concave body as through the dielectric body 131 . 132 may have useful background noise aspects because they focus the electric field inside. The width or arc lengths of these conductive surfaces, as in 14 shown are smaller than the width or arc lengths of the respective body sides that carry them.

Importantly, the transfer connector acts as a single extrusion 200 ( 15 to 16 ), which may carry multiple signal channels thereon, each such channel having a pair of conductive surfaces 202 to 203 includes. This conductive surface 202 . 203 are separated from each other by the intervening dielectric body 204 He wears these separately, as well as train sections 205 that connect these together. This extrusion 200 can be as part of a total plug arrangement 220 used where the extrusion into a complementarily shaped opening 210 , formed in a connector housing 211 , is recorded. The inner walls of the openings 210 may be selectively plated, or contacts 212 can in the case 211 be introduced to contact the conductive surfaces, and provide surface mount, if necessary, or opening tail sections.

17 illustrates the arrangement of two transmission channels 50 arranged as illustrated and connected at one end to a connector block 180 passing through a right-angled block 182 pass, which is a series of rectangular passages 183 formed therein, which receive the transmission channel connectors, as shown. In arrangements, such as those in 17 1, it will be understood that the transmission channel connections can be made in a continuous manufacturing process, such as by extrusion, and any such channel can be designed with intrinsic and integrated conductive elements 52 getting produced. When fabricating these elements, the geometry of the transmission channel per se can be controlled, as well as the spacing and positioning of the conductive elements in the dielectric bodies such that the transmission channels are guided as consistent and uniform electronic waveguides forming a single channel or track "support the signal (communication) traffic. Because the dielectric bodies of the transmission channel connectors can be designed to be more flexible, the systems of the invention are readily compliant with various paths over extended lengths and to significantly sacrifice the electrical conductivity of the system. The one plug in block 180 can maintain the transmission channels in a vertical orientation while the block 182 can maintain the ends of the transmission channel connectors in a rectangular orientation for connection to other components.

18 illustrates a set of convex dielectric blocks or bodies 300 - 302 in which the separation distance L varies, and the curvature 305 the outer surfaces 306 the blocks takes off from the connectors 303 - 302 to. In this way, it should be understood that the shapes of the bodies can be selected to provide different lens characteristics, to focus the electric fields that are developed when the conductive elements are energized.

19 illustrates a multiple channel extrusion 400 with a series of dielectric bodies or blocks 401 connected by tracks 402 in which the conductive surfaces 403 in terms of the way they are multiple or complex. Regarding the in 13 shown construction carries such an extrusion 400 multiple signal channels, each of the channels preferably comprising a pair of differential signal-conducting elements.

20 illustrates a standard extrusion 200 like the one shown in 15 and 16 ,

The connectors of the present invention may be connected to a connector or other housing. The 21 to 23 illustrate a connection interface as a reasonably conical end cap, which is a hollow body 501 with a central opening 502 having. The body can have a pair of connectors 504 carry that to the conductive surfaces 52 of the dielectric body 51 fit. The end cap 500 can be inserted into various openings in plug housings or panels and as such, and preferably includes a conical insertion end 510 , The end cap 500 can be structured to connect only a single transmission line, as in the 21 to 23 or may be part of a multiple port interface, and connect multiple separate transmission lines, as in US Pat 24 and 25 illustrated.

24 illustrates the end caps 500 in position on a number of connectors 520 attached to an endblock 521 are connected, the surface mount connections 522 so that the endblock 521 can be attached to a control panel (not shown). The end cap need not have the shape of the conical structure shown in the drawings, but may have other shapes and configurations similar to those shown and described below.

25 illustrates an alternative construction of an end block 570 , In this arrangement, the transmission lines or connectors 571 formed of a dielectric and comprise a pair of conductive extensions 572 , formed on their outer surfaces (with the expansions 572 , which are shown for clarity only on one side, and their corresponding dimensions on the surfaces of the connectors 571 are formed in the plane of the paper of 25 opposite). These conductive expansions 572 are with guides 573 on a control panel 574 by means of conductive vias 575 , formed on the inside of the switchboard 574 , connected. Such contact holes may also be in the body of the end block 570 if desired, be constructed. The contact holes 575 are preferably split as shown, and their two conductive sections are through an intervening gap 576 disconnected to maintain separation of the two conductive transmission channels at the level of the panel.

26 illustrates a cap or block 600 , applied on a control panel 601 , This type of end cap 600 serves as a plug and therefore includes a housing 602 with a central slot 603 with different key ways 604 that receive protruding sections of the interface connector. The end cap plug 600 can have a variety of windows 620 for access to the conductive tail sections 606 the contacts 607 at corresponding opposite guides on the panel 601 to solder. In cases where surface mount tails are shown, the horizontal parts can 609 the tails 606 be plugged under the body of the end cap housing to reduce the size of the panel size required, as well as reduce the capacity of the panel system.

27A illustrates a partial skeleton view of the end cap connector 600 and shows like the contacts or connectors 607 in the connector housing 602 be supported and go through the connector housing 602 extend. The connections 607 can be a two-wire contact end 608 for a redundancy in contact (and for providing a parallel electrical path) and the plug 600 can a coupling stack 615 comprise, which has an inverted U-shape, and amplifies the coupling of the terminals via the housing. From the coupling stack 615 can be seen that it has an elongated skeleton extending longitudinally through the connector housing 602 extends. A plurality of legs spaced from one another by spaces along the length of the coupling stack extending downwardly toward the panel, and each such leg has a width greater than the corresponding width of the leg Connection opposite this. As shown in the drawings, the coupling stack legs are positioned in alignment with the terminals. The tail sections of these two-wire connectors 607 increase the stability of the plug. In this regard, a check is also provided for the terminals which have a channel (lateral) over the housing slot 601 form. The two-contact path not only provides path redundancy but also reduces the inductance of the system through the ports. 27B is a view of the inner contact assembly included in the end cap plug 600 of the 26 and 27A is used. The connections 607 are arranged on opposite sides of the plug, and with regard to the carrier blocks 610 assembled. These carrier blocks 610 are spaced from each other at a preselected distance which is the pitch of the terminals 608 supported each other.

A conductive coupling stack 615 with an overall U-shape or blade shape can be provided or can be between the ports 607 and the carrier blocks 610 be pushed in between, to the coupling between and under the terminals 607 to increase. The coupling stack 615 has a number of blades 620 on through intervening spaces 621 separated and between pairs of opposite contacts ( 28 ) 6087 are pushed, and extending in the direction of the surface of the panel down. The stack 615 extends longitudinally through the plug body between the connector blocks 610 , The connector blocks 610 and the connector housing 602 (especially the side walls thereof) may have openings 616 formed therein, the engagement pegs 617 pick it up to engage the two parts. Other means of attachment may be used as well.

28 is an end view of the plug 600 introducing the coupling stack between a pair of opposite contacts 608 and the engagement of the connector blocks 610 and the connector housing 602 illustrate.

The 29A to C illustrate another embodiment of the transmission channel connector constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention using air as a dielectric and using broadside coupling between conductive elements. In 29A is a dielectric substrate 700 of a generally uniform cross section and has an enlarged body or area portions 701 formed at intervals thereof with conductive elements 702 placed on opposite surfaces of the substrate 700 are arranged. The body sections 701 are connected by track sections 703 shown having a thickness which is smaller than the thickness of the body portions 701 , As in 29A shown are the enlarged body sections 701 preferably aligned with each other as are the conductive surfaces carried thereby.

The conductive elements are preferably plated surfaces of the substrate 700 or a layer formed by a suitable deposition method. In this manner, vertical signal channels are thereby defined in this arrangement, which are identified in the boxes "1-4" that under each of the bodies 701 in the 29A appear. The polarities of the conductive elements 702 may be aligned to provide differential signal transmission, and as illustrated, in such an arrangement, the positive ("+") signal conductive surface lies on one side and the negative ("-") conductive surface on the other, and preferably opposite, side of the dielectric substrate , As will be understood in the art, conductive extensions form 702 opposite polarity pairs or signal channels below 29A are marked with "1" to "4". In this embodiment, the opposing conductive pairs are separated by the volume and extent of the intervening dielectric support substrate. This design is suitable for mezzanine configurations and uses a non-air textured dielectric.

29B illustrates a variation in the structure of such a connector with a dielectric body or substrate 700 ' with a variety of slots 705 ' formed therein, spaced apart along the width of the substrate, and using the air as their selected dielectric between the two conductive elements of each signal channel. The conductive surfaces 700 '' are disposed on the opposite sides (or sidewalls) of the slots and spaced from each other by an intervening gap filled with air. In this structure, the polarity of the conductive surfaces can be selected as shown to be negative and positive signal-conducting surfaces facing each other, as in 29B shown, reducing the air in the slot 105 ' is used as a dielectric between the associated pairs of conductive surfaces. In contrast, in the embodiment of 29A the signal pairs or channels vertically or through the dielectric body in the embodiment of the 29B and 29C arranged, the arrangement and electrical affinity thereof extending horizontally and through an intermediate air gap. In building transmission channels of this sort, the entire outer surface of the substrate may be plated and the upper outer surfaces plated 706 ' can be etched to remove this plating. Any plating that is initially in the base 708 ' between the two sidewalls can be removed, as by etching away. As a result, a plurality of conductive vertical plates are separated 702 ' educated. In this type of arrangement, the primary field coupling occurs between oppositely charged NEN pairs of conductive surfaces (horizontally in 29B ), and the air gaps or gaps between the oppositely charged pairs of conductive surfaces are more stringent than the distance between the gaps per se. Thus, the differential pair spacing is "electrical" firmer through the geometric control to ensure that the primary electrical affinity remains in the differential pair.

29C illustrates a similar structure, but one that has a conductive ground plane 710 ' used on the bottom surface of the dielectric substrate 700 ' is applied. Such structures can be used to form dense matrices of transfer channel connectors, as shown in FIG 30 wherein a plurality of substrates 700 ' stacked together on their sides. Each substrate can be a ground plane 710 and three communication or signal paths, as illustrated, or other arrangements may be selected.

31 Figure 4 illustrates the use of such a structure in a rectangular relationship and formed on the inner surfaces in a dielectric body rather than on outer surfaces. This is called a dielectric block 800 shown with a plurality of grooves or recesses 804 that are formed in it. The opposite walls of the grooves 804 can with conductive surfaces 803 be plated, extending from one end 806 to a bell mouth 802 on the other end 807 extend. The conductive surfaces 803 are spaced apart and end just before the bell mouths 802 to electrically decouple the channel from the next transmission channel connector section.

The 32 to 34 illustrate another construction of a waveguide medium constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention. As in 32 shown is a dielectric substrate 900 with a variety of slots or grooves 902 provided therein. The slots 902 are in opposite surfaces of the dielectric substrate 900 formed and define a series of rising areas, the plated or otherwise conductive surfaces 903 support. The slots 902 can be viewed as an educated series of thin webs 904 which reduce the cross-section of the dielectric and reduce the capacitive coupling between the alternating channels. The width of the conductive surface may be controlled within each signal channel or track to control the impedance of the channels. How best in 34 The surface holding parts, like the foot, can be shown 910 , are formed with the substrate, and may include the conductive surfaces disposed on their outer surfaces to establish a conductive interface for connection to a panel, such as by soldering. The substrate 900 is formed with both the body section 900 as well as a surrounding base section 909 shown to the shaping of this body section 900 to facilitate. The body section 900 can then be separated from its surrounding base section by suitable trimming.

35 illustrates a transmission line 420 (after separation of body part 909 ) of the invention extending between two switchboards 421 . 422 extends. The transmission line 420 fits with a plug 424 similar to the one in 26 to the outside and to the outside thereof to a surface mount connection arrangement 425 on the control panel 422 is disposed (or forms a surface mounting "foot" which is molded or otherwise formed with the transmission line, the opposite contact tracks or guides on the surface of the control panel 422 can be attached). Such a connection can be a plurality of contact parts 426 include, facing upwards from the surface 427 extend, and the contact parts preferably comprise conductive surfaces 428 opposite to the conductive strips 430 are arranged so that they make direct contact with the strip 430 of the transmission element. They may be soldered or otherwise fastened or may rest solely by frictional contact to make electrical connection. The illustrated arrangement also includes an outer protective sheath 431 formed of plastic or metal (provided that the inside thereof opposite to the transmission element is protected with an insulator) to protect the transmission channel from damage and external contact.

In 36 is the transmission connector 420 in a rectangular configuration extending between two switchboards. The transmission connector may be formed in such a shape with the desired physical dimensions of thickness, spacing, etc., to maintain the wavelength parameters through the radius of curvature. In the application shown, the transmission connector connects a surface-mount plug 424 with a control panel 422 by a surface holding arrangement 425 directly on the dashboard surface 427 is positioned.

The 37 and 38 illustrate another embodiment of a channel transmission line with grouped elements or a connector 650 in particular for conveying high voltages and currents in high-density con is suitable pitches. The body of the transmission line 650 is formed of a dielectric, and has a series of grooves or slots 651 formed therein and in the body portion thereof from a surface 652 extend. The side walls 654 these slots are conductively coated with a conductive material, such as by plating, and effectively define a series of "plates" 655 which are opposed to each other and which are separated by intervening space or air, which are typically the slots 651 occupied. In the left side of the 37 and 38 is an insert-shaped peg 658 and this plug comprises a cap portion 659 and one or more tongues or fillers 660 coming from the cap section 659 hang out and get into the room of the slots 651 extend and occupy completely. The plug 658 , in particular the filling section 660 thereof, extends between and isolates the opposing conductive surfaces to prevent the occurrence of spark arrest between them. The plug is filled with a dielectric material, which preferably has a high dielectric constant, which is equal to or greater than the dielectric constant of the dielectric body. A ground plane 659 can on the lower surface of the transmission line of 37 and 38 arranged to provide increased capacitive coupling.

In this way and as best schematically in 38 As shown, the opposite polarities (ie, "+" or "-") of electrically conductive pairs of contacts are electrically isolated from one another, but nonetheless they define a complete circuit. The sizes included in the transmission elements of the present invention allow very high densities to be achieved with a low inductive mode of deployment, particularly due to the large number of common parallel current paths. Right of the 37 and 38 is shown a further means for achieving this isolation, preferably with signal transmission conductive surfaces, ie the use of a conformal coating 661 , which is present throughout the slot and area configuration, but provides electrical isolation and isolation between the two conductive surfaces. The distance between the plated surfaces 654 . 655 can be very small, on the order of 0.4 mm and the like, and the insulation coating or the film 661 prevents sparking or short circuiting between pairs of conductive elements. The use of opposite pairs in the transmission lines, over which power is carried, and possibly on two opposite surfaces thereof, results in less loop inductance of the transmission line system. The conformal coating or the film 661 Preferably, they have a dielectric constant less than that of the dielectric body, and a dielectric constant close to that of air, 1.0, is most preferred.

As in 39 As shown, the transmission lines of the present invention may also be used to conduct very low impedance current. In the transmission line 750 , which is illustrated, becomes a dielectric body portion 751 with a series of grooves 752 formed, in its outer surface 753 provided. Different from some of the previous embodiments, more than the outer surfaces of the region portions of the dielectric body are plated with a conductive material. Two such areas 755 be on the length of the transmission line 750 continuously plated, and they are made by plating in the grooves or openings 752 separating them, so that five separate surfaces are clad. These include the two areas 755 , the two side walls 756 the grooves 752 and the base 757 the groove, all acting together to form a single power connection of the transmission line. In this arrangement, there is an increasing surface area that provides increased capacitance between the power connector and an associated ground (or current return) connector. The low inductance and increased capacitance serve to lower the impedance of the overall system so that the transmission lines of the present invention can be used to provide low impedance current. Although shown as a hexagonal configuration, it will be understood that this arrangement would be useful in any similar configuration, such as one having raised, semicircular areas connected by tracks, the intermediate valleys of different shape between adjacent areas 755 form.

The 40 and 41 illustrate possible implementations of using a mixed signal and power transmission line. In 40 can be seen that the transmission line 950 has two signal tracks or expansions 951 to a single wide track or stretch 952 formed on at least one and preferably both (opposite) surfaces 955 the transmission line. The current extents define a large current channel with an increased continuous conductor for increased current handling and high capacitance with the increased plate area. The current and signal regions of this type of structure can pass through a broad "isolation" region 956 be separated, which is formed or forms part of the transmission line. In manufacturing processes, such as extrusion, the tolerance and dimensions The isolation region can be controlled with high reliability in order to obtain the maximum electrical benefit and to minimize cross-contamination or short-circuit contact between the current and signal expansions.

41 illustrates a similar structure except that the current range has a plurality of current extents 952a which are separated by intervening isolation regions.

While the preferred embodiment of Invention has been shown and described, it is the expert in Prior art obvious that changes and modifications can be done in this without departing from the invention, the scope being defined by the appended claims becomes.

Claims (13)

Termination arrangement of a high-frequency transmission line for a differential signal ( 50 ), wherein the transmission line comprises an elongated dielectric body ( 51 ), which extends between two ends, a pair of elongate conductive guides ( 52 ), located on the outside of the body ( 51 ), wherein the two conductive guides ( 52 ) on the circumference by a given distance along the length of the body ( 51 ) are spaced apart between the two ends thereof, the termination arrangement comprising a housing ( 424 . 501 . 602 ), characterized in that: the housing ( 424 . 501 . 602 ) comprises a part of the dielectric body, with a recess arranged therein ( 502 . 603 ), which is dimensioned so that it has one end of the transmission line ( 50 ) with a pair of conductive elements located in the recess ( 502 . 603 ) are arranged and in the recess ( 502 . 603 ) are spaced apart from each other so as to communicate with the conductive guides ( 52 ) electrically engage the transmission line when one end of the transmission line into the recess ( 603 ) and with conductive tail sections ( 504 . 606 ) extending from the recess ( 502 ) and with the body part for engagement with opposite conductive surfaces on a circuit board ( 574 . 601 ). Termination arrangement according to Claim 1, in which the transmission line ( 50 ) a cylindrical mandrel or pin ( 51 ) and the conductive guides ( 52 ) on the outside of the mandrel or pin ( 51 ) are spaced apart from each other and the housing ( 501 ) an end cap ( 500 ) comprising a hollow cylindrical member. A termination arrangement according to claim 2, wherein the end cap ( 500 ) a conical end ( 510 ), which covers the end cap ( 500 ) in an opening ( 575 ) leads a circuit board or board. The termination assembly of claim 1, further comprising a second end cap (10). 500 ), located near the graduation cap ( 500 ) and the second end cap ( 500 ) a recess ( 502 ) for receiving the end of a second transmission line ( 50 ) herein. The termination assembly of claim 1, wherein the transmission line comprises a plurality of pairs of elongated conductive leads and the connector housing (10). 424 . 602 ) a slot ( 603 ), which extends along the housing, wherein the plug housing ( 602 ) a plurality of conductive elements ( 607 ) located therein on opposite sides of the slot (FIG. 603 ) are arranged. A termination assembly according to claim 5, wherein each of the conductive elements ( 607 ) a connection ( 607 ) formed of a length of a wire bent back on itself to form a U-shaped terminal. Termination assembly according to claim 6, wherein the terminals ( 607 ) open ends ( 608 ), defining contact points thereof, and closed ends ( 609 ) which define tail portions thereof. The termination assembly of claim 5, wherein each of the conductive elements comprises a double loop terminal (10). 607 ) comprising a redundant circuit path between opposing conductive tracks ( 52 ) of the transmission line ( 50 ) and a conductive surface of the circuit board ( 601 ). The termination assembly of claim 5, further comprising a conductive capacitive coupling device (10). 615 ) in the slot ( 603 ), and that between the conductive elements ( 607 ) is inserted, wherein the coupling component ( 615 ) provides a conductive surface derived from the conductive elements ( 607 ), which improves the capacitive coupling between the conductive elements. The termination arrangement according to claim 9, further comprising a connection carrier component ( 610 ), held in the housing ( 602 ), wherein the connection carrier component ( 610 ) both conductive elements ( 607 ) and the coupling component ( 615 ) supported. A termination arrangement according to claim 9, wherein the coupling component ( 615 ) has an inverted U-shape, with an elongated frame portion and a variety of legs ( 620 ), which are spaced from each other by spaces along the framework section, whereby the legs ( 620 ) from the framework section downwards in the direction of the circuit board or board ( 601 ) extend or depend. The termination arrangement according to claim 10, wherein the legs ( 620 ) of the coupling component have a greater width or width than the corresponding widths or widths of the conductive elements (FIG. 607 ). Termination arrangement according to Claim 5, in which the conductive elements ( 607 ) each have a tail section ( 609 ), which extends from the housing, wherein the tail sections ( 609 ) inwardly towards the housing slot ( 603 ) are directed so that they are not outwardly from the housing slot ( 603 ) away over edges of the plug housing ( 602 ).